Maria Bakalova on 'Learning to Breathe Under Water' & Artistic Chemistry

Maria Bakalova and Rebekah Fortune Dive Deep into 'Learning to Breathe Under Water'

Bulgarian actress Maria Bakalova, renowned for her captivating performances, has found a profound resonance with the upcoming film 'Learning to Breathe Under Water.' The project, which premieres in the prestigious Special Screenings program at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, delves into the complexities of family dynamics, grief, and the journey toward healing. Bakalova, alongside director Rebekah Fortune, has expressed a deep affection for the film's sensitive portrayal of its characters and its unique artistic vision.

A Story of Grief, Autism, and Unconventional Connections

'Learning to Breathe Under Water' centers on a family grappling with loss. The narrative follows an autistic boy, his grieving father, and an au pair who enters their lives, bringing with her a fresh perspective and the potential to disrupt their carefully constructed world. The film promises an intimate exploration of how individuals navigate sorrow and forge new bonds in the face of adversity.

Maria Bakalova, who plays a pivotal role in the film, articulated her immediate connection to the script and its characters. She described the experience of working on 'Learning to Breathe Under Water' as a deeply rewarding artistic endeavor. The film's exploration of vulnerability, empathy, and the often-unseen struggles within families struck a chord with the actress, who is known for her ability to imbue her characters with emotional depth.

"There was something about the script that just felt so honest and raw," Bakalova shared in a statement. "It’s a story about connection, about finding your way through immense pain, and about the unexpected places where you can find solace. The characters are so beautifully written, and their journey is one that I felt compelled to be a part of."

The Allure of the Surreal: A Shark on the Roof?

Beyond its emotional core, 'Learning to Breathe Under Water' also boasts a distinctive visual style, characterized by surreal and thought-provoking imagery. One of the most intriguing elements, as hinted at by the film's title and promotional materials, is the presence of a shark on a roof. This striking visual metaphor, while seemingly bizarre, speaks to the film's thematic undercurrents.

Director Rebekah Fortune explained the genesis of such unconventional imagery, emphasizing its role in conveying the internal landscapes of the characters. The shark, for instance, can be interpreted as a representation of overwhelming emotions, unspoken fears, or the sheer weight of grief that can feel as imposing and out-of-place as a marine predator on a suburban dwelling.

"We wanted the film to have a dreamlike quality at times, reflecting the characters' inner turmoil and their attempts to make sense of their reality," Fortune stated. "The shark on the roof is a visual representation of the 'uninvited guest' of grief, something that feels impossible and yet is undeniably present. It’s about confronting the extraordinary within the ordinary, and how art can help us process the unspeakable."

Bakalova herself was drawn to these unique visual elements, finding them to be not merely decorative but integral to the storytelling. She believes that such artistic choices can unlock deeper layers of meaning for the audience, prompting reflection and emotional engagement in ways that a more conventional approach might not.

"When I saw the visual concepts, I was immediately intrigued," Bakalova remarked. "It’s not everyday you see something like a shark on a roof in a film. But it’s not gratuitous; it serves a purpose. It’s a powerful image that stays with you, much like the emotions the characters are experiencing. It’s a testament to Rebekah’s vision to weave these surreal elements into a story that is fundamentally about human connection and resilience."

Collaboration and Artistic Chemistry

The collaboration between Bakalova and Fortune, along with co-stars Rory Kinnear and Ezra Carlisle, was crucial in bringing this nuanced story to life. The film's intimate nature required a high degree of trust and shared understanding among the cast and crew.

"Working with Rebekah was an incredible experience," Bakalova enthused. "She has a clear vision but is also very open to collaboration. We had many discussions about the characters, their motivations, and how to best convey their emotional journeys. That kind of creative synergy is what makes filmmaking so special."

Fortune echoed these sentiments, praising Bakalova's dedication and talent. "Maria brought such a profound emotional intelligence to her role," Fortune said. "She understands the subtleties of human expression and was able to translate complex emotions into a performance that is both powerful and deeply moving. She truly embraced the spirit of the film."

A Premiere at Karlovy Vary

The selection of 'Learning to Breathe Under Water' for Karlovy Vary's Special Screenings program is a significant recognition of the film's artistic merit. This section of the festival is known for showcasing bold and distinctive cinematic voices, making it an ideal platform for the film's debut.

The film's debut at an international festival like Karlovy Vary offers a global stage for audiences to experience its unique blend of emotional depth and visual artistry. The anticipation is high for a film that promises to be both a poignant exploration of human resilience and a visually arresting cinematic experience.

With its compelling narrative, powerful performances, and striking surrealism, 'Learning to Breathe Under Water' is poised to make a memorable impact. The film's exploration of grief, autism, and the unexpected ways in which people connect offers a timely and deeply human story that is sure to resonate with viewers worldwide.